Brendan McDaid

A “horrendous” assault on a 15-year-old girl in Derry has led to fresh calls for the installation of gates at Derry’s underpass tunnels.

Police have now confirmed that they are investigating an assault on a teenage girl that occurred in the Collon Lane/ Bloomfield Park area of Galliagh between 9pm and 10.30pm on Saturday.

The nature of the attack is still being investigated, but PSNI Detective Chief Inspector James Mullen said:

“It is believed that there was a large group of young people in the area at the time and I appeal to any person who witnessed the assault or has any information that would assist with our enquiries to contact Detectives at Strand road on the non-emergency number 101. Or, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Independent Councillor for the area Dee Quigley said action was now needed to close off the tunnels, following this and several other serious episodes at tunnels in the region over recent months.

He said: “Our community is devastated for this young girl and her family.

“I have been calling for these tunnels to be gated for some time now. What cost do we put on peoples safety? I don’t want to be writing into your paper about a murder that has happened at one of these tunnels.

“They need gated off and it needs done now, our community demands that it is carried out immediately for residents safety.

“If anyone has any information about this attack contact the appropriate people immediately so we can get whoever done this dealt with.”

Colr. Quigley added: “I would also like young people to be aware of their personal safety, and not to frequent dark areas on their own.”